Test Drive: Cupcake Wars

These small bites of yumminess are still a big wedding trend. But not all are created equal. BRIDES editors tested dozens, rating each on flavor, texture, frosting, and appearance. We sampled and sugar-crashed, then determined the nation's top four couture bakeries.

BAKED BY MELISSA

These bite-size, melt-in-your-mouth treats look like dollhouse confections. Our testers marveled at how something so small could deliver flavors so complex. The s'more is an exact replica of the campfire fave, down to the sticky marshmallow; the mint chocolate chip offers the same thrill as swiping a spoonful of ice cream from the container.

CUPCAKE GOURMET

These diminutive cuties are tastier and moister than much of the supersized competition. Our judges swooned over the triple chocolate dipped in ganache. Stack the white-chocolate vanillas on tiers and they could easily upstage a traditional wedding cake.

GEORGETOWN CUPCAKE

Nostalgia is the secret ingredient here. The whipped frosting evokes the birthday cupcakes Mom used to make; only difference is Mom—bless her heart—never baked like this. Far-out varieties like the salted caramel had one editor declaring it "sexy"; the lemon blossom tastes like a glass of cool lemonade; the bubblegum (shown) is as delish as Bubblicious gum.